The Phantom Stethoscope: A Field Manual for Finding an Optimistic Future in Medicine [Hardcover]

Stephen K. Klasko (Author), Gregory P. Shea (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 25, 1999

Through the ingenious use of combining science fiction with industry expertise, Stephen K. Klasko, a practicing physician, and Gregory P. Shea, Wharton faculty member and health-care consultant, pose this provocative question: What if a medical resident was abducted by aliens in 1985, and through advanced technology was imparted a full understanding of the health-care system of the future? Mila undergoes this phenomenal experience and her life changes forever as she discovers an exciting and improved future in medicine.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Stephen K. Klasko received a B.A. from Lehigh University and his M.D. from Hahnemann University. In 1996, he completed the Wharton Executive M.B.A. program. Currently he is the chairman of the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and professor of clinical OB-GYN at Penn State University, Hershey Medical Center.

Gregory P. Shea is a graduate of Harvard College, and holds an M.S. in management studies from the London School of Economics, and an M.A., M. Phil., and Ph.D. in administrative science from Yale University. He is a principal in the Coxe Group, an international consulting firm and is on the faculty at the Wharton School of Business, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 272 pages
• Publisher: Hillsboro Press (July 25, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 157736144X
• ISBN-13: 978-1577361442
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.2 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,903,703 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An engaging, thought provoking and entertaining book., August 19, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Phantom Stethoscope: A Field Manual for Finding an Optimistic Future in Medicine (Hardcover)

This book creatively combines science fiction and medicine (which are not as diametrically opposed as one might think). The authors have successfully explained the monumental changes that have occured in the health care industry over the past 15 years in an informative yet entertaining way. I found this book to be thought provoking, intriguing and extremely enjoyable. It really is a "must read" for anyone currently (or thinking about) working in health care. Drs. Klasko and Shea present a realistic and, thankfully, optimistic outlook on the evolution and future of health care. It is a remarkably well written book that will draw readers in and leave them wanting for more. Hopefully, a sequel is in the works!

2 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars WOW - A well written book about business and medicine, April 18, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: The Phantom Stethoscope: A Field Manual for Finding an Optimistic Future in Medicine (Hardcover)

I was amazed by the story line, the gripping tale, and the way in which Klasko wove his knowledge of both business and medicine into a compelling story. If Doctors don't get it after reading this book, they never will.

3 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great message for anyone interested in healthcare, August 11, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Phantom Stethoscope: A Field Manual for Finding an Optimistic Future in Medicine (Hardcover)

There have been few books that attempt to look at the nonclinical side of medicine with any creativity. This book by Drs Klasko and Shea takes a science fiction approach that acts as a perfect backdrop for lessons about how to handle the changes in medical care. The concept of getting abducted by aliens is how many physicians view the current scenario. I applaud Drs Klasko and Shea for attempting to mix this "Star Wars" type plot with an optimistic message for people involved in medicine